Bayside to have its first Pétanque Court

The first pétanque court for the southern Sydney suburb of Bayside is to be completed in a few weeks at Bexley Park, giving residents and pétanque enthusiasts the opportunity to enjoy this popular sport.

Pétanque, or French bowls, uses boules, or metal balls, that are lobbed towards a small target ball. In pétanque the objective is to score points by having boules closer to the target than the opponent after all boules have been thrown

Early last year Bayside Council was approached by pétanque group the Boules Artistes about establishing a court in Bexley Park.

Following consideration of community submissions and advice from independent heritage consultants engaged by Council a suitable site was identified.

Bayside Mayor Dr Christina Curry advised "Bexley Park is well loved by locals. This new recreation facility within the park will provide an opportunity for people all ages and abilities to enjoy this fun outdoor game."

The pétanque court has been carefully sited to mitigate any adverse impact on the layout, use and overall character of Bexley Park.

The low-profile design means no trees will be impacted by construction works, and there will be no adverse impact to the heritage significance of the site.

The work includes a compacted crushed gravel surfaced court providing two pétanque playing lanes with an accessible connection from the central pathway.

Prior to construction Council consulted with interested pétanque players to ensure the Bayside Pétanque Court would be constructed to the correct standard and fit for purpose.

The park and amenities will be available for public use throughout the construction period but access to the immediate works area will be restricted until construction is complete.